Food is a huge part of Thai culture, and with Songkran just around the corner, there’s no better time to indulge in some fiery, rich and flavourful Thai food. Songkran is the biggest and most important festival in Thailand, with celebrations held across the country; the Thai New Year’s Day kicks off on April 13 and lasts until April 15.
If you can’t make it to Thailand this year to join in on the festivities, you’re in luck. With a culinary scene like no other city in the world, Dubai is home to some incredible Thai restaurants. In fact, there’s so much choice that it can be difficult to decide which restaurant to go for. Which is why we asked the experts at Tourism Authority Thailand who picked their favourite Thai restaurants across the city.
Here are the top five most authentic Thai spots in Dubai
Sukhothai
Celebrate Thai New Year right in the heart of Dubai and enjoy a Songkran cruise around the flavours of the Far East with traditional hospitality, beautiful performances and more. Come dressed in traditional Thai costume with your friends and if you’re a group of five, you will only pay for four.
Location: Sukhothai, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre Airport Road
Cost: Dh199 per person inclusive water, soft drinks and juice, Dh259 per person inclusive of Thai hops, house white and red grape, Dh99 for children aged 4-10 years old
Timings: April 12 to 14 from 7pm to 11.45pm
Benjarong
Benjarong gives diners gorgeous views of the Dubai skyline while serving the unmistakable flavours and of Royal Thai cuisine, highlighting centuries-old recipes straight from the palaces of Thailand. The restaurant’s interior resembles the royal dining halls of King Rama IV, and the gentle sounds of the classically trained Thai musicians add to the authenticity of this unique dining experience.
Location: Benjarong, Dusit Thani Hotel, Shaikh Zayed Road
Cost: À la carte
Timings: April 12 to 14 from 7pm to 11pm
Pai Thai
A beautiful spot in Madinat Jumeirah, Pai Thai fuses dining, ambience, entertainment and overall value to create a unique and rich Songkran experience. Head down to Pai Thai and enjoy a true taste of Thailand from start to finish. Pai Thai is hosting a three-course sharing menu of Thai classics and specials. The special Songkran set menu, features classic Thai starters, mains and delicious desserts to satisfy even the sweetest of teeth. Make the most of the last few weeks of the alfresco dining weather and take a seat on the terrace, as the in-house entertainer Wanthakan will host dance shows on Pai Thai’s abra.
Location: Pai Thai, Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
Cost: Dh280 per person for food (minimum of two people sharing)
Timings: April 12 to 23 April from 6.30pm to 11.30pm
Spice Emporium
Immerse yourself in a Thai fine-dining experience at Spice Emporium. Spice Emporium offers flavoursome curries, spicy salads and traditional dishes served family style and designed to make your taste buds tingle and mouths water. Join in the Songkran festivities and enjoy classical Thai dance and terrace dining with live outdoor cooking stations serving up all your favourite Thai dishes.
Location: Spice Emporium, Westin Mina Seyahi
Cost: Dh179 per person for unlimited food
Timings: April 14 from 6pm until 10.45pm
Tong Thai
Enjoy amazing Thai service and a menu that showcases unique regional dishes, celebrating street food as well as authentic classics loved around the world. Simple Thai cuisine in a beautiful setting, prepared and served by an authentic Thai team. Celebrate Thailand’s Songkran Festival and enjoy a buffet in a festive ambience.
Location: Tong Thai, JW Marriott Marquis
Cost: Dh215 per person for unlimited food and soft drinks, Dh395 per person for unlimited food and house beverages
Timings: April 13 and 14 from 6pm until 11pm.
